Komatsu Dash-10 Excavator Has Environmentally Friendly Engine

Komatsu America Corp. offers the PC138USLC-10 tight-tail-swing hydraulic excavator for operations that need a machine to work in tight spaces in and around plant equipment. With an operating weight range of 31,791 - 32,628 lb. (14,420 - 14,800 kg), the PC138USLC-10’s short tail swing radius makes it an ideal machine for confined work areas. The EPA Tier 4 Interim and EU Stage 3B emissions certified machine is the newest addition to Komatsu’s Dash-10 excavator line up.

The PC138USLC-10 has a net horsepower of 93.5 hp (68.8 kW), powered by a Komatsu SAA4D95LE-6 engine. Built upon a Tier 3 engine platform, Komatsu has leveraged its leadership in technology and innovation to design a more environmentally-friendly engine that maintains the proven performance of the previous series while reducing daily costs and fuel consumption.

The PC138USLC-10 features improved hydraulic efficiency, improved operator comfort and simplified maintenance, yet retains the versatility and performance of the previous model. The standard additional counterweight provides the same level of lift capacity and stability that a conventional tail swing excavator provides, but uses a contoured cab design that allows the cab to swing within the same swing radius as the counterweight.

Special features of the new PC138USLC-10 include an EPA Tier 4 Interim and EU Stage 3B Emissions Certified Engine. Built upon Komatsu’s proven EPA Tier 3 technology, the SAA4D95LE-6 maintains engine performance while lowering fuel consumption up to 7 percent, compared to the previous series. Komatsu’s Tier 4 Interim engine platform uses an advanced electronic control system to manage airflow rate, fuel injection, combustion parameters and after treatment functions to optimize performance, reduce emissions and provide advanced diagnostic capability.

The new Komatsu Diesel Catalyst (KDOC) has an integrated design allowing this simple system to remove soot using 100 percent “passive regeneration” without the need for a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). Unlike a DPF, the KDOC does not have a scheduled replacement interval and is designed for long life with no maintenance required. Less complexity and truly seamless operation for the operator means lower owning and operating costs. A new variable flow turbocharger, direct flow air filter, high-pressure common rail fuel injection, 16-valve cylinder head and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) are also part of the design of the PC138USLC-10. The result is precise air-flow management and more complete combustion, eliminating the need for a DPF.

Like the previous Dash-8 series, the PC138USLC-10 uses a contoured cab design that is unique because it allows the cab to swing within the same radius as the counterweight. The work equipment is also designed to minimize the front swing radius for better operation in confined areas. With the standard additional counterweight, the PC138USLC-10 provides the same level of lift capacity and stability as a conventional excavator, but with the versatility of a tight tail excavator. An optional dozer blade makes backfilling quick and easy and optional rubber (Roadliner) or steel track shoes are available to match the machine specification to the application requirements.

All of the new excavator’s major components including the engine, hydraulic pump, motors and valves are exclusively designed and manufactured by Komatsu. This integrated design employs a closed center load sensing hydraulic system that takes hydraulic efficiency to the next level, utilizing both variable speed matching and low speed matching technology. Variable speed matching allows the engine speed to adjust based on the hydraulic pump output for both light and heavy-duty applications, while low speed matching utilizes a larger pump capable of producing higher pump output at lower engine speeds.

A new high-resolution 7-in. LCD color monitor features enhanced capabilities and displays information in 25 languages for global support. The operator can easily select from six working modes of operation to match machine performance to the application. These working modes include Power Mode, Economy Mode, Heavy Lift Mode, Breaker Mode, Attachment Economy and Attachment Power. The new monitor panel also provides Eco Guidance (operational efficiency guidance), operational records, fuel consumption history and utilization information. The standard rearview monitoring system allows the operator to view directly behind the machine with the push of a button.